Volunteers needed for Fall 2026 move-in, Carolina Welcome
Posted on: June 16, 2026; Updated on: June 16, 2026
By Hunter Mutherspaw, muthersh@mailbox.sc.edu
The University of South Carolina is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to help welcome the newest class of Gamecocks this August. Volunteers play a vital role in creating a positive first impression by helping students and their families navigate one of the most exciting times of the year.
Move-in volunteer opportunities
This year's early move-in is Aug. 7, with the majority of students arriving during full move-in on Aug. 15. Various roles are open throughout move-in, with shifts available from 7:30-10:30 a.m., 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 1-5 p.m. Volunteers will receive a shirt and meal swipe as a token of appreciation for volunteering their time.
- Move-in greeters (3-hour shifts): Welcome students and families, provide directions, assist with traffic flow, help unload vehicles and support the transport of belongings to residence halls.
- Trash & cardboard support (3-hour shifts): Assist facilities teams with collecting and managing boxes and packing materials throughout move-in.
- Post Office support (4-hour shifts): Support package pickup operations at the Blatt PE Center, including line management and general logistics assistance.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to sign up for any available shift to help ensure a smooth and welcoming move-in experience for new students and their families.
Additional volunteer opportunities
If you are unable to assist during move-in, there are several other volunteer opportunities throughout the Fall 2026 semester:
- Panhellenic Recruitment 2026 (Aug. 8-15): Welcome new members of the USC’s panhellenic community as they navigate recruitment. Volunteers assist with student foot traffic and crossing busy streets.
- First Night Carolina 2026 (Aug. 17): Help bring First Night Carolina to life on the Horseshoe, Greene Street and around Russell House. Volunteers support student wayfinding, activity stations and event cleanup as students enjoy food, entertainment, activities, fireworks and more.
- Gamecock Greeting Crew (Aug. 18-19): Support students during their first days of classes by providing directions, handing out materials and offering encouragement across campus locations.
- Student Organization Fair (Sep. 2): Assist with one of Carolina Welcome’s signature events on the Horseshoe. Volunteers help organizations check in, transport materials and guide students to participating groups.
We encourage faculty and staff to join us in welcoming new and returning Gamecocks and help make Fall 2026 a memorable and supportive beginning to the academic year.